There’s nothing quite like taking a road trip or tour through the American Southwest. The fall is an ideal time to travel through the region, as the blistering summer temperatures have cooled off a bit. And if you’re going to be on a motorcycle, the weather outside matters greatly to you.
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, have you ever thought about renting a touring motorcycle? It’s a great way to get out and enjoy nature and all its features when driving through a region as unique as the American Southwest. Here are a few touring motorcycle tips that could be helpful to you if you decide to take a ride this fall.
Plan your route ahead of time
With the internet and GPS, planning your touring route has never been easier. Many motorcycle rental shops will want you to return your bike to the same place you rented it from, so you’ll need to make your route a big circular loop.
Ride with a friend
While there’s something alluring about taking to the open road by yourself, having someone else with you could improve the tour. It would make things easier in case of an emergency, and you would have someone to share the experience with too.
Get the right bike
There are certain motorcycles made specifically for road touring, like the Honda Goldwing and Harley-Davidson Road King. Talk with someone at the rental shop and tell them where you’re planning to go and for how long so you can get the bike that best suits your needs.
Bring a valid motorcycle license
This should go without saying, but you’ll need a motorcycle license (not a learner’s permit) that’s up to date and valid in your state of residency. International riders should bring their motorcycle licenses as well, as those would likely be accepted too.
Ask about insurance
You’ll be required to pay for basic liability insurance, but be sure to ask about other options like additional liability and insurance that would cover the cost of any damage to the bike.
Pack efficiently
This means you should pack lightly and only bring what you need, but make sure to bring everything that could prove useful. This includes cold and wet weather gear, in addition to any survival supplies you would need, like a GPS, first aid kit and a flashlight. Bring tools as well, for any mechanical problems.
Wear ear plugs
Being subjected to the sound of a roaring engine and the desert wind for hours on end can wreak havoc on your ear drums. Enter ear plugs, which can prevent the mental strain and ringing in your ears that you would otherwise be subjected to.
Inspect your bike frequently
If you’re renting a touring motorcycle, one of the best touring motorcycle tips is to check your motorcycle often. You should have it serviced before you go, but make sure you monitor certain things closely. Be sure to check your tire pressure, chain and sprocket and see if there are any leaks or engine temperature changes (especially if it’s running too hot).
Call to rent your touring motorcycle today
Hopefully, having these touring motorcycle tips will have you ready to rent a touring motorcycle. If you want to see the American Southwest like never before, give us a call at Escape Eagles, where we can have you out on the open road in no time.